The magnificence of the Chaudière Falls and its Indigenous heritage to be showcased in 2017

Ottawa – The Ottawa 2017 Bureau and Mayor Jim Watson, in collaboration with lead partner CIBC, are pleased to announce a Signature Event that will elevate the natural beauty of the Chaudière Falls and immerse spectators in Indigenous culture during Canada’s 150th birthday celebrations in the nation’s capital.

From late September to early November, an ambient lighting display will illuminate the falls. Accompanied by a rich soundscape, the experience will evoke the culture of Indigenous people and in particular highlight the Algonquin heritage of the region.

This powerful tribute to Indigenous people will be co-produced by the Ottawa 2017 Bureau and world-renowned Canadian production company Moment Factory, in collaboration with the local First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities.

In addition to the light experience, interpretation panels will share the story of the Indigenous people.

The full concept and title of the free event will be revealed soon.

QUOTES

“In a year when Ottawa will welcome millions of visitors from across Canada and around the world, we are thrilled that one of the region’s most impressive natural landmarks will be featured with a new experience to celebrate and share Indigenous culture,” said Mayor Jim Watson.

“The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation are pleased to be a part of this event in the heart of Algonquin Territory. We look forward to this opportunity to tell residents and visitors of Algonquin history in our territory and of our future aspirations,” said Chief Kirby Whiteduck, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation.

“In 2017, residents and visitors to the National Capital Region will have the chance to attend a dazzling performance. The Chaudière Falls will light up in time to a musical score created for the occasion. The show will pay tribute to the Indigenous peoples of Canada. Let’s take advantage of the 150th anniversary of Confederation to strengthen the ties that unite us and reflect on the future of our country,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage.

“Ontario is proud to support the Chaudière Falls project with a $125,000 investment. Commemorating our past and celebrating our future is at the heart of our Ontario 150 programming. Making these beautiful and historically significant falls accessible for all to enjoy, and engaging and honouring our indigenous communities will leave an important legacy to be celebrated and remembered,” said the Honourable Eleanor McMahon, Minister of Tourism, Culture & Sport.

“As lead partner for the Ottawa 2017, we invite Canadians to experience one of the most breathtaking sites of the region, Chaudière Falls, so that together we can celebrate our country’s rich Indigenous history and culture through vivid storytelling,” said Monique Giroux, Vice-President, Sponsorship Marketing & Strategic Partnerships, CIBC.

“After working for many years under the leadership of the late Jean Pigott, I am very proud to be contributing to making one of her dreams a reality and to work with the Indigenous community in the development of this program” said Guy Laflamme, Executive Director of the Ottawa 2017 Bureau.

Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations will offer Canadians and visitors from around the world an exceptional and memorable year of high-caliber experiences while bringing a record number of visitors to Ottawa in 2017 to celebrate this important milestone for our country.

Ottawa 2017 thanks its lead partner CIBC, premier partner Bell, the Government of Ontario (www.ontario.ca/150 #ontario150) and the Government of Canada (www.canada.ca/150 #canada150) for their contributions in helping to deliver twelve full months of bold events, immersive experiences and all-out celebrations.